Book Recommendations and More Derby Prep

Just finished Josh Kilmer-Purcell’s “The Bucolic Plague,” as well as Julia Reed’s "Ham Biscuits, Hostess Gowns and Other Southern Specialties: An Entertaining Life (With Recipes)." I now want to be a lady farmer and market my own goat soap, a la the Fabulous Beekman Boys (Purcell and Brent Ridge), and make about every wonderful recipe in Reed’s book. Her epilogue featuring an ode to pimento cheese is great. In fact, at the art fair last Saturday, I dined on pimento cheese and Benedictine sandwiches, which I LOVE. Mmm, mmm.

Both books are entertaining reads that I highly recommend. You may not want to read them on an empty stomach, though, because the descriptions of fresh veggies, fruit and decadent Southern dishes will make your mouth water.

My next book purchase may have to be Reed’s “The House on First Street” about the home she purchased in New Orleans’ Garden District, four weeks before Hurricane Katrina hit.

So, dear friends, what are you reading these days and any recommendations you’d like to share?

Derby update: Found my cigar box purse! Yep, it was sitting right in front of me on a shelf in my closet. It may be time for another trip to the opthamologist

Had a video conference call with some colleagues in Pennsylvania this morning who asked why I wasn't wearing my Derby hat. Just because it's Derby week, doesn't mean we wear hats the entire week. But, it’s primed and ready, thanks for asking. 

So our kids can get in on the fun, I’m going to let Miss E. pick out one of my past Derby hats to wear during the race and Little Man is going to pick out one of Hubby’s bow ties. They’re excited. Last year we had a party at home, so they spent the day amid the craziness of a big Derby shindig. This year they’re perfectly content spending the day at home again, this time with Grandma and Grandpa. I know my parents are hoping naps for all are in order at some point that day.

Again, fingers crossed, hands folded in prayer and any other ritual you can think of to keep the rain away from these parts on Derby Day would be much appreciated. Last year it poured down rain and we lost power during our party. Here’s hoping that doesn’t happen again.

Happy Wednesday, y’all!
Images from Harper Collins Publishers and Amazon